General Manager | Workplace RelationsLead with integrity. Influence change. Champion fairness.AtAruma, were more than a disability service provider were a human rights organisation. We stand alongside more than 5,000 people across the east coast of Australia, supporting them to live great lives the lives they choose.Were on a bold transformation journey, and were looking for aGeneral Manager Workplace Relationsto be a strategic force in that change. This is a unique opportunity to lead the national IR/ER function of a complex, highly regulated and unionised environment where your decisions influence not just workplace culture, but real human outcomes.Why this role?This isnt just a HR leadership job its a rare opportunity to lead with purpose, strategy, and legal depth. You''ll:Own and lead Arumas nationalindustrial and employee relations strategy.Drive and manageenterprise bargaining processesfrom end to end.Represent Aruma in theFair Work Commission, navigating complex matters with credibility and confidence.Shapepolicy, ensurelegislative compliance, and lead complexworkplace investigationsandgrievance processes.Champion aconstructive, people-first culturethrough proactive union engagement and direct leader coaching.Partner closely with theCPO, executive leaders, and the Board to influence organisational change.This role is perfect for a seasonedIR/ER professional or employment lawyerlooking to step into a high-impact executive role with purpose.This role is perfect for a seasoned IR/ER professional or employment lawyer looking to step into a high-impact executive role with purpose.What you''ll do:As the General Manager Workplace Relations, you will:Provide high-levelstrategic and tactical adviceacross all workplace relations matters.Lead a small team of expert advisors insupporting a national, multi-site workforce.Represent Aruma inconciliation, mediation, and hearing settings, including with the Fair Work Commission.Leadenterprise agreement negotiationsand shape industrial strategy.Support major transformation projects, restructures, and strategic workforce initiatives.Influence the development ofvalues-aligned people policiesthat support safety, inclusion and compliance.Act as the senior point of contact forunion engagement, building strong, constructive relationships across multiple jurisdictions.Lead and resolvecomplex workplace matters, including sensitive investigations.Contribute to building adirect engagement culture, reducing unnecessary third-party intervention while uplifting leadership capability.About you:Youre a strategic thinker, calm under pressure, and legally sharp but just as importantly, youre values-led. You also bring:Youre a strategic thinker, calm under pressure, and legally sharp but just as importantly, youre values-led. You also bring:10+ years experiencein senior workplace relations, employment law, or industrial strategy roles.A relevantdegree in Law, Industrial Relations, HR, or related field is preferred but not mandatoryProven experience inenterprise bargaining, union negotiation, and representing organisations at theFair Work Commission.A strong grasp ofFair Work legislation, Awards, NES, and best-practice industrial principles.Confidence in providing advice to senior executives and Boards on risk and compliance.Leadership experience youvebuilt high-performing teamsand coached others through change.A mindset that balancescompliance with compassion ensuring every policy, decision or conversation is rooted in respect.Why Aruma?At Aruma, were building something different and we want bold, brave leaders to help us do it. Youll enjoy:A senior leadership role in a growing, progressive andpurpose-drivenorganisation.A flexible working environment withnational reach and executive visibility.Generoussalary packaging options, leave benefits and development opportunities.A People & Culture team thats collaborative, curious, and driven by genuine impact.A chance to shape how thousands of staff across Australia experience work every day.Our Commitment to InclusionWe believehuman rights, respect and equality are for everyone. Aruma is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We actively encourage applications from people with disability, First Nations people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.Apply NowIf you''re ready to use your legal, IR or ER expertise toshape systems, protect people and influence change, wed love to hear from you.Apply today or contact talent@aruma.com.au for a confidential conversation.We will review applications as they are received and aim to appoint a suitable candidate as soon as possible. Therefore, we encourage interested applicants to apply promptly.Please note: Applicants must have the right to work in Australia and will be required to undergo pre-employment probity checks. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Job Title
General Manager | Workplace Relations